‘We need your help': Beloved Freo bar struggling to survive

Perth Now

16-06-2025

The new owners of Mojo's Bar have made a public appeal for funding to help bring their transformative vision of the North Fremantle institution to life.
Last year, local architect Michael Benson, musician and venue manager Tony Papa-Adams and DJ Paul Malone purchased the 190-capacity venue from Triple-1-Three, which operates Otherside Brewing Co. and the Freo Social.
Triple-1-Three took over Mojo's, a breeding ground for top WA artists such as Tame Impala, John Butler and Stella Donnelly, in 2021.
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The extensive renovations planned by the new owners were expected to begin early this year but have been put on hold due to financial 'struggles'.
Mr Papa-Adams created a GoFundMe on Monday in an attempt to raise $16,000 for new bar furniture, 16 new beer taps, upgraded sound and lighting equipment and a new kitchen where they plan to serve 'family-style Greek-Cypriot food'. Renders of the new-look Mojo's Bar in North Fremantle. Credit: Benson Studio
'We need your help,' Mr Papa-Adams wrote.
'Not just to survive, but to grow into something even stronger that can sustain itself for future generations of music lovers.
'Live music venues everywhere are struggling. Rising costs, from rent and insurance to production and staffing, are threatening even the most beloved spots.
'These aren't just renovations. They're the foundations of a new business model one that makes Mojos more resilient, more welcoming, and more capable of supporting live music for generations to come.' Renders of the new-look Mojo's Bar in North Fremantle. Credit: Benson Studio
The new owners also plan to put a roof over the beer garden, which will feature a small bar and sound system for patrons who are not attending a performance in the front room.
When performers are not using it, the green room will become a vinyl record store.
The venue has been an important incubator of local musical talent and the owners said the new-look Mojo's will continue to support up-and-coming bands. Renders of the new-look Mojo's Bar in North Fremantle. Credit: Benson Studio
'We're not just a venue,' Mr Papa-Adams said.
'We're a launchpad for emerging artists, a sanctuary for local musicians, and a gathering place for creatives, music lovers, and community, and a special part of North Freo's soul.
'If you've ever discovered your new favourite band or had a night you'll never forget on our wooden floors, you probably know how invaluable Mojos is to the community.'